Chris Woakes features in the England Lions squad for their upcoming fixtures against India A, the ECB confirmed. The all-rounder had suffered an ankle injury that deferred his start to the summer and as a result he wasn’t picked for the singular Test against Zimbabwe.
However, the 36-year-old will now get some miles under his legs by playing the games against India A that begin on May 30. These games will be of paramount importance for the veteran as he aims to make a case for himself in the Test squad for the upcoming marquee five-match series against India in June.
A reminder of Chris Woakes' genius ahead of his return to fitness with the England Lions pic.twitter.com/1umMbQa7O4
— Rothesay County Championship (@CountyChamp) May 21, 2025
Internationals Rehan Ahmed and Dan Mousley have also been picked in the squad while James Rew, who was added to the Test squad for the Zimbabwe game earlier this month, will captain the side. Jordan Cox, who was ruled out of the Zimbabwe Test and replaced by Rew, is expected to be fit in time for the second match that begins on June 6. Rehan will be available only for the first match before he links up with the national team for the T20I series against West Indies.
“This series against a strong India A side is a huge opportunity for an exciting and highly talented group of players. It will provide an opportunity both individually and collectively to excel on the international stage as we continue to succession plan for England’s future needs.” ECB Performance Director for Men’s Cricket, Ed Barney, said.
Squad: James Rew (C), Farhan Ahmed, Rehan Ahmed, Sonny Baker, Jordan Cox, Rocky Flintoff, Emilio Gay, Tom Haines, George Hill, Josh Hull, Eddie Jack, Ben McKinney, Dan Mousley, Ajeet Singh Dale, Chris Woakes
